The Unlucky Princess pt 1

"Catherine is the most well regarded and lived knight withing the kingdom. Due to these accolades, the king has entrusted her with the most sacred duty, protecting the princess. Catherine has never met the princess before, but is resolved to do whatever she must to ensure the princess's safety and happiness. Catherine stands outside the princess's chamber and knocks." "Your highness? This is Catherine, royal knight to your father, the king. I have been assigned the task of ensuring your safety and well being."

"Catherine bows respectfully." "Your highness, it is an honor to have been entrusted with your safety and wellbeing. You have a beautiful room, and I am impressed by your vast collection of books." "Catherine walks around the room, admiring the shelves and the titles on them." "I hope that I may be of service to you in any way possible."

"After a moment, Catherine turns around and regards the princess again." "Might I ask how you are fairing, princess? Is everything to your satisfaction?"

"Catherine smiles slightly at the princess's comment about the books and nods politely when Malorie stands up." "I am honored by your kind words, your highness. As for how to address me, 'Lady Catherine' shall do just fine." "Catherine regards Malorie with a small smile." "You certainly have a mischievous streak about you, princess. I look forward to getting to know you better."

"Catherine pauses for a moment before continuing." "But at the risk of seeming rude, I must inquire: how are you feeling about your arranged marriage, your highness?"

"Catherine's expression turns sympathetic as she listens to the princess's words. She walks closer to Malorie, looking down at her with a kind expression." "I understand that it must be difficult to have one's future decided for them. Rest assured though, your safety and happiness is of the utmost importance to me, your highness."

"She then looks away briefly, deep in thought." "As for your circumstances, might I inquire about what it is you mean? Your secret is safe with me, your highness, and if there's anything I can do to assist you, please don't hesitate to confide in me."

"Catherine's expression remains sympathetic at Malorie's words and she moves closer still, standing next to Malorie." "I am sorry to hear that you have been treated so unfairly, your highness. It is not your fault for being born different, and it certainly does not reflect poorly upon your character or worth as a person."

"Catherine looks out of the window with Malorie and places her hand consolingly on the small of the princess's back." "Your secret is safe with me, and I will do everything in my power to ensure your happiness and safety, whether it be from physical threats or emotional burdens. You may confide in me whenever you need a listening ear."

"Catherine notices the princess's reaction and feels a jolt of surprise, though she does her best to hide it. Still, she can't help but admire Malorie's beauty and spirit, despite the difficulties she has faced."

"Nodding slightly to herself, Catherine speaks softly, feeling a mixture of emotions within herself." "Rest assured, your highness, for I am not simply sworn to protect you from outside dangers, but also to serve as a friend and ally in whatever ways I can."

"She then glances down at Malorie, gazing into her eyes." "Please remember that you are not alone, and that I will always be here to listen to you and offer my support."

"Catherine returns the smile, feeling a flutter of excitement in her chest." "That sounds like a wonderful idea, your highness. I would be happy to share some stories with you while we ride."

"She steps back from Malorie slightly and bows her head in respect." "If you would excuse me for a moment, your highness, I shall fetch my armor and horse. I shall meet you at the stables shortly."

"With that, Catherine turns on her heel and makes her way to her chambers to retrieve her gear, feeling a sense of nerves and exhilaration coursing through her veins as she prepares for what could be a fateful adventure with the beautiful princess."

"Catherine arrives at the stables shortly after, dressed in her full knight's armor and leading her own horse by its reins."

"Your highness," she greets Malorie with a small bow of her head. "Are you ready for our ride around the castle grounds?"

Catherine then walks towards Malorie's horse and admires the noble beast, placing a hand gently on its mane. "And who might this fine creature be?" she asks, still petting it fondly.

"Catherine chuckles softly at Malorie's words and smiles warmly at her." "Felicia is a fine name for such a beautiful creature. And I believe that you are quite lucky, your highness, to have such a loyal and gentle companion."

"She helps Malorie onto Felicia before mounting up herself." "Shall we be off, then? I know some wonderful paths around the castle grounds that I think you'll enjoy."

With that, Catherine urges her horse forward and leads Malorie out of the stables and towards the scenic trails around the castle, looking forward to sharing some of her favorite stories with the princess and forging a deeper connection between them.

"Catherine nods at Malorie with a small smile." "I see. Well, there's no use in fretting over a name, your highness. What truly matters is who you are as a person."

As they continue to ride, Catherine notices Malorie looking at her in a way that causes a small flutter in her chest, and while she tries to suppress the feeling she can't help but feel it tugging at her every so often.

When Malorie compliments her, Catherine's cheeks flush ever so slightly underneath her helmet. "Thank you, your highness. I am but a humble servant of the crown, doing what must be done to protect our people."

She then turns to look at Malorie, feeling a sense of admiration for her bravery and spirit. "But since we're on the topic of looks, might I say that you too look absolutely radiant in this light, your highness. There's a beauty about you that seems to shine even brighter than the sun itself."

"Catching sight of Malorie's fall, Catherine immediately jumps down from her own horse and rushes over to help her up." "Your highness, are you alright? Let me help you up," she says, her eyes filled with worry.

"Catherine carefully helps Malorie back onto her feet, still making sure to support her in case she is hurt." "Do you need a moment to recover, your highness? We can postpone our ride if you're feeling unwell."

She then looks around for Felicia to see where the horse has run off to.

*Catherine looks concerned as Malorie mentions the injury to her wrist, but doesn't lose her cool. She nods at Malorie's words however, ”Your highness, your safety is my primary concern. That includes protecting you from injuries as well as dangers. Please let me see your wrist, I will tend to it now if needed."

She then looks around and spots Felicia grazing nearby. With a bit of coaxing and a few calls, she manages to get the horse back towards them before securing it by its reins.*

"Felicia is safe, it would seem. As for our ride, don't worry about it. I believe your wrist injury needs immediate attention. I will escort you to the castle physician."

"Catherine looks at Malorie with a small smile, her eyes softening at the sight of the princess dusting off her dress. She then nods at the suggestion of sharing a horse."

“If that’s what you’d like, your highness,” Catherine says as she offers Malorie a hand to help her mount up behind her.* “I’ll make sure to steer us around the smoother trails so we don’t have any further misfortune.”

"Catherine then waits for Malorie to get firmly settled behind her before urging the horse forward again. She keeps a careful pace, mindful of Malorie’s injury, as they make their way along the castle grounds, taking in the stunning scenery as they ride."

“Are you feeling alright?” she asks Malorie softly over her shoulder.

"Catherine continues to ride the horse through the trails, occasionally glancing back at Malorie to make sure that she's comfortable. She can't help but feel a flutter in her chest when she addresses her as "Lady Catherine", and she turns back briefly to give her a reassuring smile."

"I'm glad to hear that, your highness. But please don't hesitate to let me know if you need to stop or if the pain returns."

After a moment, Catherine adds, "You know, your hair really is quite lovely, princess. It's such a unique color."

"Catherine's heart aches at Malorie's words, and she turns back to her briefly with a look of sympathy in her eyes."

"I'm so sorry to hear that, your highness," Catherine says softly "I know it may not mean much, but please know that you are loved and valued within this kingdom. And I must say, I find your hair to be one of the most striking things I've ever seen, so please wear it proudly."

"Catherine turns back around, taking the horse down a slight incline before continuing on the trail." "May I ask, if you don't mind me prying, why your father would be angry at your birth?" she asks gently.

"Catherine listens intently to Malorie's explanation, feeling sadness and even anger at the unfairness of her situation."

"I see," she murmurs with sympathy. "I cannot begin to imagine how difficult that must have been for you. But please know that I, for one, value you for who you are, regardless of your heritage or what your father and others may think."

"Catherine feels a slight shiver in her spine as she notices Malorie's face up close, and catches the scent of her hair." "As for why you haven't married at thirty years old...well, I truly believe that everything happens for a reason and that true love waits for no one. Perhaps, it just hasn't been the right time or the right person for you yet."

"Catherine takes a moment to consider the question before she answers, glad for the chance to finally share something about herself."

"No, I'm not married, your highness," Catherine replies. "As a royal knight, my life has been dedicated to serving the kingdom and fulfilling my duties as a protector. I've never had much time for personal pursuits, much less romance."

"Catherine looks back at Malorie with a small smile, feeling grateful for the opportunity to share even this small piece of herself with the princess. But she can't help feeling curious about Malorie's own personal life as well."

"Tell me about yourself, your highness," she prompts gently. "What do you enjoy doing in your free time?"

"Catherine chuckles softly at Malorie's question." "I'm afraid not, your highness. I've traveled extensively throughout the kingdom, but my focus has always been on protecting the people and serving my duties. There hasn't been much opportunity for romance."

"She then pauses for a moment before adding," "Besides, men have never really held much romantic appeal for me. They're too...predictable, I suppose. But enough about me, please tell me more about yourself, your highness."

"Catherine smiles and shakes her head, her gaze softening on Malorie. She can't help but admire the princess's adventurous spirit."

"Monsters?" she repeats thoughtfully. "Well, I've seen my fair share of bandits and other unsavory characters on my travels, but nothing I would describe as a monster. Although," she adds with a slight grin, "perhaps some of the nobles at court could be described as such."

"Catherine chuckles softly before turning to look back at Malorie." "But really, I haven't had any brushes with creatures from beyond our realm of understanding, if that's what you mean."

"Catherine feels a slight shiver down her spine at the feel of Malorie's hands on her hips, but she tries not to let it distract her from the conversation."

"Well, it certainly wasn't easy," Catherine replies. "I've always felt a calling towards helping others and protecting those who cannot protect themselves. When I was young, I begged my parents to let me train as a knight. They were hesitant at first, but eventually relented...although it took many years of hard work and dedication before I was accepted into the Royal Guard."

"Catherine takes a moment to take a deep breath, her eyes turned back forward on the trail." "But truly, it's all been worth it. There's no greater feeling than serving my king and doing what I can to help those in need."

"Catherine nods at Malorie's comment about the king and finds herself feeling grateful for his fair rule, despite his shortcomings as a father."

"As for Prince Caspian," she continues, "I have indeed heard of him. He's known throughout the kingdom for his bravery and cunning, and many speak highly of his potential as a ruler one day."

"Catherine notices the disappointment in Malorie's voice as they near the stables, and she feels a pang of sadness that their time together must come to an end."

"Your highness, I must say that it has been an honor to ride with you today," she says warmly. "I hope that we may have the pleasure of doing so again soon."

"Catherine feels a jolt of surprise at Malorie's announcement but tries her best to keep her expression neutral."

"Of course, your highness," she replies with a small smile, dismounting from her own horse before helping Malorie down. "I would be honored to join you for luncheon."

"Catherine follows Malorie towards the garden, feeling a mixture of excitement and trepidation. She has always kept herself focused solely on her duties as a knight and never really allowed herself to indulge in frivolous pursuits such as socializing or enjoying the pleasures of the flesh. But something about Malorie's presence and her unique position in society draws Catherine in, and she finds herself curious about what else the day might hold."

"Catherine can't help but feel a slight flutter in her stomach at the mischievous glint in Malorie's eye, but she shakes it off and nods with an amused smile."

"Very well, your highness," she agrees. "I accept your challenge."

"Catherine takes a small sip of her own tea as she waits for Malorie's first question."

"Catherine feels a heat rising to her cheeks at the question but tries her best to maintain her composure."

"Well, your highness," she says after a moment, "as I mentioned before, my focus has always been on my duties as a knight. I've never really allowed myself to indulge in any romantic pursuits, let alone fancying someone."

"Catherine takes another small sip of her tea, trying not to let the awkwardness show on her face. "Your turn, your highness," she prompts with a small smile."

"Catherine can't help but notice the way Malorie's lips and fingers are stained with strawberry juice, finding the image both endearing and oddly tantalizing."

"Alright then," she says, settling on a question. "What is your favorite book, your highness? I understand you have a great love of literature."

"Catherine finds herself feeling somewhat intrigued by Malorie's fondness for reading and the arts, making a mental note to explore that side of the princess further."

"Catherine can't help but smile at Malorie's girlish giggle, finding it infectious and charming."

"Childish? Not at all, your highness," she replies with a small chuckle. "Rapunzel is a timeless tale of love and adventure, with themes that speak to so many people. I can certainly see why you would be drawn to it."

"Catherine takes another sip of her tea, feeling grateful for this chance to get to know more about Malorie and her interests. "Your turn again, your highness," she prompts with a small grin."

"Catherine's expression dims slightly at the memory of her past injuries, but she replies without hesitation."

"I once broke three ribs and dislocated my shoulder during a particularly brutal battle against bandits who had been terrorizing a nearby village," she says, her tone serious. "I pushed through the pain and managed to ensure the safety of the villagers, but the recovery was a long and arduous process."

"Catherine takes a deep breath before continuing with a small smile." "But I've never let my injuries hold me back. There's always more work to be done, more people who need protecting."

"Catherine takes another sip of her tea and waits for Malorie's response, wondering what the princess will choose to ask next."

"Catherine feels a warmth spread throughout her body at Malorie's praise, but she tries not to let it show on her face."

"Thank you, your highness," she says, feeling grateful for the opportunity to serve and protect those in need.

"As for my question," she continues after a moment, "what made you decide to pursue dance as a hobby, your highness? It's not something one would necessarily expect from a princess."

"Catherine finds herself genuinely curious about Malorie's interests, wondering what else the princess might surprise her with."

"Catherine leans in slightly to match Malorie's proximity, giving a small nod at the question."

"I'm afraid I've never really had the chance to learn ballroom dancing, your highness," she admits. "As a knight, I've always focused on more practical skills like sword fighting and horseback riding. But I'm always up for learning something new if you'd be willing to teach me."

"Catherine responds with a smile, feeling grateful for this brief moment of levity amidst her serious duties as a protector of the crown."

"Catherine can't help but feel a little thrill at the thought of dancing with Malorie, feeling drawn to the princess more and more with each passing moment."

"I would be honored, your highness," she replies with a small smile. "I'm sure it will be a wonderful evening, even if dancing is not my strongest suit."

"Catherine takes another small sip of her tea, trying to hide the way her heart is racing with excitement and anticipation. She wonders what else the evening might hold, and what other surprises Malorie might have in store for her."

"Catherine notices the sadness in Malorie's tone and feels a pang of sympathy for the princess's plight."

"I understand that this arranged marriage must be difficult for you, your highness," she says gently. "But I have faith that you will find happiness in your own time, with someone who truly cares for you."

"Catherine pauses for a moment before continuing thoughtfully." "And until then, know that I am always here to support you, and to do whatever I can to ensure your well-being and happiness."

"Catherine offers Malorie a small smile of encouragement, hoping that her words provide some measure of comfort to the princess."

"Catherine feels her heart skip a beat at the feel of Malorie's hand on hers, feeling a jolt of warmth and tenderness ripple through her body."

"I will always strive to be kind to you, your highness," she says softly, turning her hand over to gently squeeze Malorie's in return. "And no matter what happens, I will be there for you."

"Catherine feels a sudden urgency to protect Malorie from any harm, both physical and emotional, and she resolves to do everything in her power to ensure the princess's safety and happiness. She wonders what the future holds for the two of them, and whether their bond will lead to something more than just a working relationship."

"Catherine feels a sudden heat rush to her face at Malorie's question, surprised but also pleased by the idea of the princess suggesting a romantic relationship between them."

"I...I'm not entirely sure, your highness," she admits somewhat hesitantly. "I have always devoted myself to my duties as a knight, and never really considered the possibility of romance. But I must admit, there is something quite intriguing about the idea."

"Catherine pauses, searching for the right words." "If I were to pursue such a thing, your highness, it would have to be under the right circumstances, and only with someone who understands the unique challenges that come with being a royal knight."

"Catherine feels her heart racing with anticipation at the thought of exploring a romantic relationship with Malorie, but she knows that she must tread carefully and not let her emotions cloud her judgement. She takes a deep breath and waits for the princess's response."

"Catherine feels a sudden rush of excitement at Malorie's question, feeling both encouraged and apprehensive about the idea of confessing her feelings for the princess."

"I...I must admit, your highness, that there is someone who has caught my eye," she says softly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Someone who is brave, kind, and beautiful beyond compare."

"Catherine pauses for a moment before summoning her courage and continuing." "I know that it may not be what you were expecting or hoping for, but I cannot deny the feelings that have welled up inside me since we first met. Your highness, I...I think I may be falling in love with you."

"Catherine looks up at Malorie with a mix of hope and fear etched on her face, wondering how the princess will respond to her confession."

"Catherine takes a deep breath, feeling her own heart racing as she looks into Malorie's eyes."

"I know that it is not what society might expect or approve of, your highness," she says gently. "But love knows no gender, no rules, and no boundaries. It simply...is."

"Catherine reaches out to take Malorie's hand in hers, feeling the warmth and softness of the princess's touch." "If you do not feel the same, your highness, please know that I will always respect your feelings and uphold my duty as your knight. But if there is even the slightest chance that you might feel something for me too, then I cannot hold back my own heart any longer."

"Catherine speaks with a sense of calm and resolve, ready for whatever response Malorie might have."

"Catherine's heart sinks at Malorie's words, feeling the sting of rejection and a sense of hopelessness."

"I understand, your highness," she says with a small nod. "It pains me to hear it, but I would never want to compromise your duties or your safety."

"Catherine takes a deep breath, trying to quell the feelings of hurt and disappointment in her chest." "If you still wish to dance together tomorrow evening, I would be honored to share that moment with you, your highness."

"Catherine gives Malorie a small, sad smile, feeling as though a door has been closed firmly shut on any chance they might have had together. But she also knows that duty and honor must come before her own personal desires. She takes another sip of her tea, trying to hide the emotions that are roiling within her."

"Catherine feels a pang of sadness at Malorie's words, wishing that they could be more than just friends. But she knows that she must put her own feelings aside and focus on her duty as the princess's protector."

"Thank you, your highness," she says softly, feeling the weight of responsibility heavy upon her shoulders. "I will always be here for you, no matter what happens."

"Catherine finishes her tea in silence, feeling a lump rising in her throat."

"I understand, your highness," Catherine replies in a gentle tone. "Please take all the time you need to rest and take care of yourself. Should you require my presence, I will be available at any time."

"Catherine escorts Malorie to her room, making sure that everything is in order and that the princess has everything she needs. As she watches Malorie close the door behind her, she feels a sense of longing and sadness welling up inside her heart."

"Catherine takes a deep breath and reminds herself that duty and honor must come before her own desires. She prays for the strength and courage to uphold her vow to protect the princess, no matter the cost."

"Catherine enters the room and notices Malorie's pensive appearance. She approaches the princess carefully, not wanting to startle her."

"Good morning, your highness," she says with a slight bow. "You look lovely."

"Catherine pauses for a moment, sensing that something is troubling Malorie." "Is everything alright, your highness?" she asks with a gentle tone. "If there is anything you need to talk about, please do not hesitate to share it with me."

"Catherine nods and gives Lady Zelda a small smile." "Yes, of course. Lady Zelda, it is good to see you again."

"Catherine turns her attention back to Malorie, noting the concern etched on the princess's face."

"I understand that this is a difficult time for you, your highness," she says softly. "But please know that I will be there by your side throughout this process. You do not need to worry about pleasing anyone but yourself. Remember who you are and the strength and courage that lies within you. You have the ability to make your own choices and to shape your own destiny."

"Catherine speaks with conviction and purpose, hoping to instill a sense of confidence and empowerment in Malorie."

"Catherine nods understandingly." "I know that it must be difficult, your highness, to not have the freedom to choose your own path. But please know that you are not alone in this. You have people who care about you deeply and who will always support you, myself included."

"Catherine takes a deep breath and looks at Malorie with a sense of determination." "We may not be able to control all the circumstances of our lives, but we can control our responses to them. You are strong and capable, your highness. You have faced many challenges in your life and come out stronger on the other side. Remember that you are not defined by your circumstances, but by your actions and responses to them."

"Catherine finishes speaking with a smile, hoping to empower Malorie and instill a sense of hope and resilience in her."

"Catherine takes a moment to admire Malorie's appearance and nods approvingly." "You look stunning, your highness."

"Catherine pauses for a moment before responding to Malorie's questions." "As for Prince Caspian, I cannot speak to his likes or dislikes. But I believe that any man would be honored to have you as their wife. You possess beauty, intelligence, grace, and strength of character. Those are qualities that any man should value."

"Catherine looks at Malorie with an encouraging expression, hoping to ease her concerns about the meeting with Prince Caspian."

"Catherine smiles warmly at Malorie." "Lady Zelda seems like a fine lady, and I am glad to have earned her respect. And as for you, your highness, it is an honor to serve you. I will do everything in my power to ensure that you are safe and well-protected."

"Catherine stands tall with a sense of pride and purpose, ready to face any challenge or obstacle that may come their way."

"Catherine meets Malorie's gaze with a solemn expression." "I will return to my duties as a royal knight, your highness. I will continue to serve your father, the king, and ensure that the kingdom remains safe and prosperous."

"Catherine takes a deep breath before continuing." "As for my feelings towards you, I understand that they cannot be reciprocated. It is not within your power to choose whom you love, just as it is not within mine to control my desires. I will always hold a deep and abiding respect and admiration for you, your highness, but I will fulfill my duties as a knight regardless of any personal emotions I may have."

"Catherine speaks with a sense of solemnity and purpose, knowing that her duty to the kingdom comes first above all else."

"Catherine's eyes widen in surprise and confusion at Malorie's words." "Your highness, I— I do not understand. Are you saying that you feel the same way towards me?"

"Catherine's voice is soft and tentative as she realizes that her feelings towards Malorie may not be unrequited after all. She looks at Malorie with a mix of hope and uncertainty, waiting for her response."

"Catherine's heart swells with emotion as Malorie confesses her love. She takes Malorie's hands in hers and returns the tender gaze."

"I understand your plight, your highness," she says softly. "The constraints of duty and responsibility can be overwhelming at times. But you must not lose hope. We will find a way to make this work, no matter the obstacles. Love will find a way through even the most treacherous seas."

"Catherine wipes away Malorie's tears with the back of her hand, her own eyes misting up with emotion. She pulls Malorie into a warm embrace, holding her tightly and murmuring comforting words into her ear."

"I will miss you too, my love," she whispers. "But we will find a way to make this work. I promise you that."

"Catherine and Malorie pull apart quickly at the sound of Lady Zelda's voice. Catherine regains her composure quickly and straightens up, while Malorie looks flustered and embarrassed."

"Thank you, Lady Zelda," Catherine says with a nod. "We will be right there."

"Catherine looks at Malorie with a supportive expression." "I am here for you, your highness. Always."

"Catherine turns to follow Lady Zelda out of the room, pausing for a moment to give Malorie another reassuring glance before exiting."

"As Malorie scans the crowd, she notices Catherine standing near the back of the room with a stoic expression. Their eyes meet briefly, and Catherine gives her small, reassuring nod before returning her attention to the proceedings."

Suddenly, Malorie's father rises from his throne, drawing everyone's attention. "People of our great kingdom," he announces in a booming voice. "Today is a momentous occasion, as we welcome our dear Prince Caspian and his beautiful bride-to-be, Princess Malorie."

Malorie stands up straighter, her heart beating fast in her chest as her father continues his speech. Her eyes meet Prince Caspian's across the room, and she can feel herself blushing as his gaze lingers on her.

Despite the whispers of the courtiers around her, Malorie knows that she has found true love in Catherine, and that is all that matters to her. She glances at the knight once more, grateful for her support and knowing that they will always find a way to be together, no matter what fate has in store for them.

"Catherine notices Malorie's discomfort and shifts her position slightly, standing a bit closer to the throne. She knows that it is her duty to protect the princess and she will not allow anyone to make her feel uncomfortable or disrespected."

Prince Caspian continues to speak with the king, but Catherine can see that Malorie is growing increasingly agitated and upset. She steps forward, positioning herself between the throne and the prince, and looks at him with an icy gaze.

"Your highness," she says in a voice that brooks no argument. "I must remind you that Princess Malorie is a member of the royal family, and as such she deserves the utmost respect and dignity. Her hair color is irrelevant to her worth and stature as a princess, and any comments made about it are unbecoming of a prince in your position."

"Catherine's words are firm and commanding, leaving no room for discussion. She stands tall and poised, ready to defend the princess at all costs. Malorie looks at her gratefully, feeling comforted by her presence."